Matt Bruce, Northborough man diagnosed with ALS, has died

NORTHBOROUGH, Mass. (MyFoxBoston.com) -- Matt Bruce, the inspirational 26-year-old Northborough man diagnosed with Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS in 2013, died Friday.

Bruce, who had worked at a funeral home for many years, didn't let his diagnosis stop him from living. He visited many European.

On March 7, Bruce sat down with FOX 25's Mark Ockerbloom and discussed his intention to participate in the Falmouth Road Race this summer. His family hoped they could get a specially designed wheelchair so Matt's father could push him and they could complete the race together.

Though the disease had taken Bruce's ability to speak, he was still able to communicate his thoughts via text. When Ock asked if he had any advice to give, he wrote, "Just enjoy life, and don't take life for granted."

Bruce's friends and family have organized a 5K walk/run in his hometown of Northborough for Saturday, April 5 to benefit Matt and his family. Though online registration has closed, those wishing to participate can register the morning of the race, starting at 8:30 a.m. The website for the event, Miles for Matt, can be found here, and a Facebook event page has also been created.

Cox Media Group